Materials

PC (Polycarbonate)

Polycarbonate is an amorphous material with excellent impact strength, clarity, and optical properties. It is very widely used and a wide variety of compounds are available. Polycarbonate has excellent mechanical properties and can be molded to tight tolerances. It is attacked by solvents and petrochemicals, and its weatherability is only adequate.

LexanCalibreMakrolon

Typical Properties

Tensile Strength9,000-23,000 psi
Flexural Modulus340,000-1,400,000 psi
Impact Strength2-18 ft-lb/in notched izod
Max Temperature150°-300° F
Chemical ResistancePoor to Fair

Applications

  • Automotive headlights
  • Business machines
  • Consumer products
  • Telecommunications
  • Medical products
  • Mechanical goods

Advantages

  • + High impact resistance
  • + Clarity
  • + Good flammability performance
  • + Dimensional stability
  • + Chemical resistance (PC blends)

Disadvantages

  • − Only fair solvent resistance
  • − Subject to stress cracking
  • − Degrades if not processed correctly
  • − High processing temperature
  • − Yellowing after long term exposure to UV light
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